Lower Extremity Patents (Class 602/23)
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Patent number: 8657772Abstract: A wearable device having feedback characteristics including a compliant article arranged to extend over an anatomical portion of a wearer and for providing a user with information regarding range of motion parameters of a joint and/or to condition users to maintain proper joint orientations. Sensors provided with the wearable device detect the orientation of the joint and send signals to a processor for analysis. When the processor determines that the joint is outside of predefined range of motion parameters or in an unsafe or potentially injurious configuration, a feedback or response mechanism is activated to alert the user to such a condition or to provide substantially rigid structural support to the joint. The sensors, processor, and feedback mechanisms can be provided in a monitoring and control package along a side of the compliant article.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2008Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: Ă–ssur hf.Inventor: Palmi Einarsson
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Patent number: 8652075Abstract: In a walking assistance device for providing a walking assistance force to a femoral part of a user, the walking assistance force generated by a power generator is effectively transmitted to the femoral part of the user while avoiding the user from experiencing any undue pressure or discomfort. The walking assistance device includes a rigid femoral support frame having a base end connected to an output end of an electric motor unit and a free end extending from the base end to a position opposite to a front part of the femoral part of the user, and a flexible belt attached to the free end of the femoral support frame to be releasably worn around a circumference of the femoral part of the user at a height corresponding to the free end of the femoral support frame.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2009Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hideaki Takahashi, Taiji Koyama, Hideo Shimizu
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Publication number: 20140046233Abstract: An ankle walker including an ankle shell, an inner lining, at least one bladder and at least one strap is provided. The ankle shell includes a base, a lower foot portion, a first and second side panel and a back panel. The lower foot portion extends upward from the base. The first side panel and second side panel extend from respective first and second portions of the lower foot portion. The back panel extends from a third portion of the lower foot portion and is positioned between the first and second side panels. The ankle shell has a first slot separating the first side panel from the back panel and a second slot separating the second side panel from the back panel. At least one of the first and second slots has a height that is at least one half the height of the ankle walker.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 15, 2013Publication date: February 13, 2014Applicant: VELOCITY MEDICAL, LLCInventors: John R. Bird, Matthew J. Bird, Dennis W. Baker, Jeffrey J. Bollmann
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Patent number: 8641654Abstract: A hinged ankle brace having a semi-rigid ankle cuff and a semi-rigid foot bed rotatably connected by a medial hinge and a lateral hinge provides enhanced stability and support to a wearer's ankle. The medial hinge of the ankle brace may be higher than the lateral hinge to accurately replicate the bending motion of an ankle. The ankle brace also includes ratchetably interconnected semi-rigid straps. These semi-rigid straps provide a semi-rigid structure encircling the ankle of a wearer for enhanced support. The ratchet mechanism may include a curved window that enables angular adjustment of the ratcheting straps. The ankle brace may also include a soft inner liner and a soft outer sleeve. The outer sleeve is configured to provide compression to the semi-rigid shell, which in turn provides additional compression to the ankle. The semi-rigid foot bed may include posterior extensions that cup and support the wearer's heel, and a posterior cut-out portion that receives the wearer's heel.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2005Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Assignee: DJO, LLCInventors: Drew R. Verkade, Jeremy Nathanson, David Rodwell Walters, II
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Patent number: 8636678Abstract: A foot cuff that is inflatable to apply compression to the foot to promote blood flow has a bladder formed of two layers of material secured together. An outer layer includes a foot-underlying portion that has a greater thickness and rigidity that an opposing inner layer. The outer layer directs expansion of the bladder upon inflation in the direction of the inner layer and toward the foot for increasing compressive force applied to the foot.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2008Date of Patent: January 28, 2014Assignee: Covidien LPInventor: Mark A. Vess
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Patent number: 8636681Abstract: The splint for the entire leg is a portable splint that is used to immobilize fractures that may occur to the leg of an accident victim. The splint includes two parts that are connectable when the splint is applied to the leg. An upper part functions to immobilize the femur and stabilize the hip. A lower part immobilizes the tibia and/or fibula and stabilizes the knee and foot. Straps are employed to secure the splint to the leg.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2013Date of Patent: January 28, 2014Inventor: Mohamad Saad Farhan Mutairan Al-Azmi
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Patent number: 8632483Abstract: A frame is sized and configured to support a reduced bone fracture of an individual. A guide assembly on the frame carries a bone fixing device guide that defines a guide path along which a bone fixing device can be advanced into a region of the reduced bone fracture. A linkage system couples the bone fixing device guide to the frame for articulation of the guide path among a plurality of desired orientations with respect to the reduced bone fracture. A guide bushing is included. Which includes packaging that maintains the guide bushing in a sterile condition prior to insertion into the bone fixing device guide.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2011Date of Patent: January 21, 2014Assignee: Fixes 4 Kids Inc.Inventors: Mark A Reiley, Kurt Vedder, Colin J. Corey
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Patent number: 8628487Abstract: A cushioning boot for bed-ridden patients. The boot includes a thickly-padded leg engaging portion and foot engaging portion with a front opening for easy insertion of a patient foot and leg. A series of stretchable, adjustable closure panels are removably secured to the boot for positioning and inserted leg in the proper orientation and retaining it in place. The closure panels are provided with guiding in the form of loops secured to the boot. Each closure panel passes through its associated loop for proper positioning.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2007Date of Patent: January 14, 2014Assignee: Sage Products, LLC.Inventors: Lawrence G. Ponsi, Paul Hanifl
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Patent number: 8628488Abstract: A compression wrap for providing pressure to an injured portion of a joint of a limb is provided. The compression wrap includes a pocket portion for receiving compression insert. The compression wrap further includes a strap connected to the pocket portion and adjustably securing the compression wrap to the limb. A buckle loop connected to the opposite side of the pocket portion as the strap adjustably receives the strap to adjust the size of the strap. Further, the strap portion and the pocket portion are configured such that when the compression wrap is attached to the limb of a person having an injury proximate the joint, the pocket portion is positionable to apply a load to the location of the injury while the strap portion is spaced away from the crease of the joint.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2006Date of Patent: January 14, 2014Inventor: Richard J. Serola
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Patent number: 8622944Abstract: A modular articulating splint includes flat slats; a covering that surrounds the slats and holds them in a fixed position spaced apart from each other so that adjacent slats can fold over atop one another to form a stacked deck of slats for storage; and a fabric hook-and-loop fastener for each slat so that the hook portion is affixed to the covering within the width of each slat on a first side and the loop portion is affixed to the covering within the width of each slat on the opposite side.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2012Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Inventor: Alexander Jesus Villahermosa
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Patent number: 8613150Abstract: A footwear device including a resilient member having first and second ends. The first end can be configured for being connected to a user's foot, and the second end can be configured for being connected to the user's leg above the ankle joint. The resilient member can be configured and positioned for resiliently and rotatably biasing the user's foot about the ankle joint.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2012Date of Patent: December 24, 2013Inventor: Darrell L. Wong
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Patent number: 8608678Abstract: The invention relates to an orthopedic technical device for the lower extremities, with at least one receptacle (12, 16) for an extremity (14, 18), a sensor (30) and an electric evaluating unit (34), which is connected with the sensor (30) for processing data of a sensor (30). According to the invention, it is proposed that the electric evaluating unit (34) be set up in order to carry out a method with the following steps: (i) switching into a learning mode, (ii) determining at least one characteristic value of the system (R, S, N, aw,threshold), (iii) storing the characteristic value of the system (R, S, N, aw,threshold), (iv) switching into an operating method and (v), in the operating mode, influencing, optimizing or selecting a control algorithm of the orthopedic device by means of the characteristic value of the system (R, S, N, aw,threshold).Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2009Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Assignee: Otto Bock Healthcare GmbHInventors: Tanja Hahn, Erik Albrecht-Laatsch
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Patent number: 8603016Abstract: In a walking assistance device configured to apply a walking assistance force to a femoral part of a user, a walking assistance force provided by a power generator mounted on a pelvic support assembly is transmitted to a femoral part of the user via a femoral support assembly. The femoral support assembly includes a swing arm (60, 62) having a base end connected to an output end of the power generator and a free end opposing a front part of the femoral part of the user, a femoral support member (68, 70) pivotally connected to the free end of the swing arm and having a support surface engaging the front part of the femoral part of the user, and a femoral belt (73, 74) passed around the femoral part of the user and having two ends attached to corresponding lateral ends of the femoral support member. Thereby, the femoral support member is enabled to accommodate changes and/or variations in the contour of the femoral part of the user.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2011Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hideo Shimizu, Kouji Okazaki, Hideaki Takahashi, Taiji Koyama
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Publication number: 20130324899Abstract: A brace system worn by a user includes a brace, a belt, a strap, a securing mechanism and an adjusting mechanism. The brace is configured to provide support for a limb of the user. The belt is configured to be worn securely by the user above the brace. The strap depends downwardly from the belt and is configured to provide vertical support to the brace. The securing mechanism is configured to secure the strap to the brace. The adjusting mechanism is configured to adjust a length of the strap so that the strap maintains a desired supporting tension on the brace.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2013Publication date: December 5, 2013Inventor: Lance W. Lance
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Patent number: 8597219Abstract: The invention provides, in various embodiments, braces that are capable of stabilizing an injured limb, particularly an injured wrist. An exemplary brace fits across the injury in contact with the user's limb and has an adjustable casing and compressible material.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2005Date of Patent: December 3, 2013Assignee: DJO, LLCInventors: David C. Hargrave, Eugene Prais
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Patent number: 8597217Abstract: A therapy wrap for treatment of at least a portion of an animate body having improved kink resistance. The therapy wrap may be selectively reinforced for improved kink resistance in only a portion of the wrap. The reinforcement may decrease the kink radius. The wrap may include a kink reducer in all or only a selected kink-prone region. The kink reducer may be selectively configured attachment points or spot welds. The therapy wrap may include a reinforcement layer of one or more discrete reinforcement members. The wrap may be formed by pre-tensioning the material layers while forming the fluid bladder and/or gas pressure bladder. The therapy wrap may be adapted to compensate for conditions that normally cause kinking of the wrap or buckling of the fluidic channels. Also disclosed are methods of manufacturing the wrap and methods of administering a temperature-controlled treatment to an anatomical body part.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2010Date of Patent: December 3, 2013Assignee: CoolSystems, Inc.Inventors: Mark H. Lowe, Krister Bowman
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Patent number: 8591446Abstract: An article of manufacture, an orthodic device for use with feet and ankles with an arch support removably attached to an ankle brace. A stirrup, tab and tunnel are disclosed. Optional pads may also be used with versions of the invention.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2011Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Inventor: Dwayne James Helm
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Patent number: 8591440Abstract: Devices and methods of manufacturing and using the same are provided for treating patients suffering from tendon dysfunction. Certain exemplary brace embodiments contain strapping systems and inflatable cells that are adapted to support the forefoot of the patient.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2005Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: DJO, LLCInventors: John D. Logue, Lew C. Schon, Christopher P. Chiodo, Brent G. Parks, David C. Hargrave, Nick Grippi
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Patent number: 8591444Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for adjusting rotational limits of an orthopedic brace hinge are provided. A hinge stop assembly limits rotational travel of first and second frame members of the hinge. An indexing key of the hinge stop assembly is actuatable in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the hinge to lock and unlock the position of the hinge stop assembly relative to the hinge. Actuation of the hinge stop assembly unlocks the indexing key and allows movement of the hinge stop assembly to set a desired limit on the flexion or extension of the brace hinge. Release of the hinge stop assembly locks the indexing key and locks the hinge stop assembly in place.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2011Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: DJO, LLCInventors: Robert Bejarano, Emee Villegas, Carl Hoffmeier
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Patent number: 8585626Abstract: A brace for dynamically correcting the bending of the joints of the lower limb including a thigh grip (1), a leg grip (2), connection means between said thigh grip and said leg grip, wherein said connection means includes at least two flat flexible profiles (3?, 3?) that work in extension, elastically opposing the bending of the knee, and said brace comprises a foot grip (7) and further flexible means (6, 3?a, 3?a) arranged for connecting said leg grip (2) to said foot grip (7), which work in extension elastically opposing the bending of the ankle.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2009Date of Patent: November 19, 2013Inventor: Mario Cerioli
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Patent number: 8579843Abstract: A knee joint bandage made of elastic textile material having a profiled insert encompassing the kneecap in a recess, the insert being covered by an overlay fastened to the textile material. Within the profile insert is a flexible, non-expandable tensioning member for connecting the regions of the kneecap poles on the fibula side in an arc around the kneecap wherein the distance between these regions increases during bending of the knee joint, the distance of the arc from the connecting line of the knee poles is decreased, and the tensioning member presses on the adjacent side of the kneecap, displacing the same medially and centering it. The bandage is provided with a flexible tensioning band, which partially covers the kneecap in its peripheral area relative to the tensioning member, the tensioning band substantially extends in the direction between the kneecap poles such that it counteracts a lifting of the kneecap.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2007Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Bauerfeind AGInventors: Hans H. Bauerfeind, Wolfgang Krause, Heinrich Hess, Rainer Scheuermann
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Patent number: 8579842Abstract: A method and system are provided for that allow for varying stiffness of a system by applying a low magnetic field to magnetorheological (MR) fluid in the system. The method and system include exposed patterns on facing surfaces of sliding structures. The facing patterns contain MR fluid. When a low to moderate magnetic field is applied to the MR fluid, the patterns are magnetically attracted to MR domains confined to the opposing surface, thus requiring additional force to slide the structures past each other.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2010Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: President and Fellows of Harvard CollegeInventors: Carmel S. Majidi, Robert J. Wood
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Patent number: 8574181Abstract: An ankle walker including an ankle shell, an inner lining, at least one bladder and at least one strap is provided. The ankle shell includes a base, a lower foot portion, a first and second side panel and a back panel. The lower foot portion extends upward from the base. The first side panel and second side panel extend from respective first and second portions of the lower foot portion. The back panel extends from a third portion of the lower foot portion and is positioned between the first and second side panels. The ankle shell has a first slot separating the first side panel from the back panel and a second slot separating the second side panel from the back panel. At least one of the first and second slots has a height that is at least one half the height of the ankle walker.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2011Date of Patent: November 5, 2013Assignee: Velocity Medical, LLCInventors: John R. Bird, Matthew J. Bird, Dennis W. Baker, Jeffrey J. Bollmann
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Publication number: 20130281903Abstract: A lower leg supporter supports a gastrocnemius muscle from upper, lower, left, and right sides without interfering with movement of an Achilles tendon and which can suppress excessive vibration or deformation of such muscle to reduce a wearer's fatigue. The lower leg supporter includes a first anchor section that secures a tubular knitted fabric to a below-knee part, a second anchor section that secures the tubular knitted fabric to an above-ankle part, and an X-shaped gastrocnemius muscle support section located at a joining part of such muscle and an Achilles tendon on the back surface side of the tubular knitted fabric. Two ends of the X-shaped knitted fabric are joined to the first anchor section to support the gastrocnemius muscle. The other two ends of the X-shaped knitted fabric are joined to the second anchor section, and extend to both edges of the Achilles tendon.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 28, 2011Publication date: October 24, 2013Applicant: KOWA COMPANY, LTD.Inventors: Yoshihiko Kozasa, Hidefumi Koga
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Patent number: 8562548Abstract: The present invention provides a rehabilitation device using a walking assistance device (1) having an actuator which generates and provides torque to a lower limb joint of a wearer wearing the walking assistance device (1), comprising a floor reaction force pattern storing unit (330) configured to store a reference floor reaction force pattern; a control target floor reaction force setting unit (340) for determining a control target floor reaction force based on the floor reaction force pattern stored in the floor reaction force pattern storing unit (330); a target torque calculating unit (350) for calculating a target torque of the actuator to achieve the control target floor reaction force determined by the control target floor reaction force setting unit (340); and an actuator output controller (150) for controlling output of the actuator such that the actuator generates a torque matching the target torque calculated by the target torque calculating unit (350); wherein the floor reaction force that the weType: GrantFiled: September 18, 2009Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kei Shimada, Ken Yasuhara, Tetsuya Ido, Shuichi Wakita
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Publication number: 20130274641Abstract: A guard for a rear ankle area of a wearer. A top portion is adapted to rest against a lower calf portion of the wearer. A middle portion is integrally formed to the top portion and extends therefrom curving outward to terminate at a bottom portion, wherein, in combination, the top portion, the middle portion and the bottom portion are adapted to align with and shield a substantial portion of an Achilles tendon of the wearer. The bottom portion has a bottom lateral end connected thereto extending radially therefrom to form a lateral cup, and the bottom portion has a bottom medial end connected thereto and extending therefrom radially on an opposite side of the bottom portion in an opposite direction from the bottom lateral end to form a medial cup for placement, respectively, over a lateral malleolus and medial malleolus of the wearer.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2013Publication date: October 17, 2013Inventor: Glenn Douglas Dolfi, JR.
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Publication number: 20130267878Abstract: The present disclosure relates, according to some embodiments, to a device and/or system (e.g., redistributing weight away from a subject's foot), which may comprise (a) a platform, (b) at least one vertical support fixed to the platform and extending upwardly from the platform, and (c) at least one cuff (i) configured to surround and releasably grip at least a portion of a subject's leg other than the foot and (ii) mounted (e.g., adjustably) to the at least one vertical support at a vertical position along the at least one vertical support sufficient to suspend a subject's foot in a non-weight-bearing position above the platform during ambulation, wherein the platform, the at least one vertical support, and the at least one cuff together are configured to bear at least the subject's full weight.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2013Publication date: October 10, 2013Inventors: Hans G. FRANKE, David SALINGER, Jeff DODD
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Patent number: 8551027Abstract: In the assist device, the output of an actuator is adjusted so that it becomes lower as a state of charge of a battery exceeds a first threshold value, and also so that it becomes lower as the state of charge of the battery becomes lower. The output of the actuator is controlled on the basis of the state of charge of the battery, so that it is possible to make the agent recognize the change in the state of charge of the battery by changing the output of the actuator, and as a result, to avoid the situation where the agent feels strange with respect to stopping the operation of the assist device following thereto.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2009Date of Patent: October 8, 2013Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yosuke Endo, Keishiro Kikuchi, Ritsuo Hara
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Patent number: 8551029Abstract: An Active Ankle Foot Orthosis (AAFO) is provided where the impedance of an orthotic joint is modulated throughout the walking cycle to treat ankle foot gait pathology, such as drop foot gait. During controlled plantar flexion, a biomimetic torsional spring control is applied where orthotic joint stiffness is actively adjusted to minimize forefoot collisions with the ground. Throughout late stance, joint impedance is minimized so as not to impede powered plantar flexion movements, and during the swing phase, a torsional spring-damper (PD) control lifts the foot to provide toe clearance. To assess the clinical effects of variable-impedance control, kinetic and kinematic gait data were collected on two drop foot participants wearing the AAFO. It has been found that actively adjusting joint impedance reduces the occurrence of slap foot, allows greater powered plantar flexion, and provides for less kinematic difference during swing when compared to normals.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2013Date of Patent: October 8, 2013Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyInventors: Hugh Herr, Joaquin Blaya, Gill A. Pratt
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Patent number: 8545424Abstract: When securing a frame (7) made of a rigid member for carrying a heavy object such as a drive unit (3) for a walking assistance device on the hip of a wearer, a hip protective belt (4) made of fabric is wrapped around the hip of the wearer, and the frame (7) is secured thereon via a flexible plate (5) and a pressure plate (6) located on an outer side of the flexible plate (5) and having a higher rigidity than the flexible plate (5). The intermediate members allow the wearer to feel the rigidity of the frame in a mitigated manner, and the wearer would not experience any discomfort from the pressure of the frame even when the posture of the wearer is changed. The hip protective belt can readily conform to the body contour of the wearer, but the frame would not deform. Because the intermediate members absorb the difference in the builds of different wearers, the frame may come in a small number of different sizes to fit almost any wearer allowing the hip support member can be mass produced at low cost.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2006Date of Patent: October 1, 2013Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Takashi Hirata, Kei Shimada, Takako Fujii
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Patent number: 8539647Abstract: A limited durability fastening for a garment. The garment is provided with fastening members which engage to close the fastening and the fastening members are provided with means for controlling the degradation of the closure strength of the fastening as it is opened and closed and thus the number of permissible closures of the fastening having a pre-determined closure strength. The garment is particularly useful when fitted to a foot where short life is desirable at low cost or to a garment where re-use is to be discouraged for either clinical or commercial reasons.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2006Date of Patent: September 24, 2013Assignee: Covidien AGInventors: Gordon J. Cook, David Portsmouth
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Patent number: 8540655Abstract: The present disclosure relates, according to some embodiments, to a device and/or system (e.g., redistributing weight away from a subject's foot), which may comprise (a) a platform, (b) at least one vertical support fixed to the platform and extending upwardly from the platform, and (c) at least one cuff (i) configured to surround and releasably grip at least a portion of a subject's leg other than the foot and (ii) mounted (e.g., adjustably) to the at least one vertical support at a vertical position along the at least one vertical support sufficient to suspend a subject's foot in a non-weight-bearing position above the platform during ambulation, wherein the platform, the at least one vertical support, and the at least one cuff together are configured to bear at least the subject's full weight.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2010Date of Patent: September 24, 2013Assignee: Toad Medical CorporationInventors: Hans G. Franke, David Salinger, Jeff Dodd
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Patent number: 8529484Abstract: An orthotic foot brace for a person wearing a footwear includes: a lower leg holder; a lower leg strut extending downwardly towards the footwear; a foot strut having a rear section secured to the vertical strut, at least one of a median section and a lateral section located on a respective side of the footwear and extending outwardly thereof, and a front section securable to an instep section of the footwear; and a brace retaining member secured to the foot strut juxtaposed to the footwear, and extending from the median side of the footwear to the lateral side of the footwear, outwardly thereof, and restraining a rearwardly pivotal movement of the brace.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2010Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Assignee: Ortheses Turbomed Inc./Turbomed Orthotics Inc.Inventors: Stéphane Savard, François Côté
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Patent number: 8523790Abstract: A walking assistance device has a drive mechanism for driving a third joint of a leg link of the walking assistance device, the drive mechanism including a crank arm secured to a lower link member and a linear-motion actuator which has a linear-motion output shaft connected to the crank arm. The angle formed by a straight line connecting a joint axis of the third joint and a connecting portion of the linear-motion output shaft relative to the crank arm and a straight line which passes the connecting portion and which is parallel to the axial center of the linear-motion output shaft changes from an angle closer to the straight angle toward an angle closer to the right angle as the flexion degree of the leg link is increased from a flexion degree corresponding to a state wherein a user is in an upright posture.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2009Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yoshihisa Matsuoka, Yasushi Ikeuchi, Yutaka Hiki
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Publication number: 20130226058Abstract: Mobility devices are provided that enable a user to walk when the user's lower leg is in a non-functioning condition. A mobility device includes a main body, a lower leg support, an upper leg support, and a foot. The main body can be secured to a lateral side of the user's upper leg with the upper leg support. The lower leg support is connected to the main body and supports the user's lower leg. The foot is connected to a lower end of the main body and is configured to engage the ground. The foot may have a split foot configuration with a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the foot is positioned rearward of the main body and the second portion of the foot is positioned forward of the main body. Each of the first and second foot portions may have an arcuately shaped profile.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 3, 2013Publication date: August 29, 2013Inventors: Michael R. Sanders, Jonathan Mark Roberts, Benjamin Scott Avery
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Patent number: 8517964Abstract: An orthotic brace includes a proximal support section pivotally connected to a distal support section, and each having a medial frame and a lateral frame connected to width adjustment plates. At least one angle adjusting component provided in the lateral or medial frames allows angular adjustment of the brace. The width adjustment plates include lateral and medial slots through which fixing members pass to engage the respective frame portions. This permits the space between the lateral frame and the medial frame to be adjusted according to the size of the wearer's body part. Proximal and distal shells are adjustably positioned on the width adjustment plates via a series of positioning holes axially arranged along the shells which selectively engage a fixing member passing through a positioning slot on the width adjustment plates. This allows for the shells to be both axially adjusted and positioned along the width of the brace.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2011Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Ossur HFInventors: Murali Krishna Sreeramagiri, Brice Robertson
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Patent number: 8517965Abstract: An orthopedic brace having length adjustable supports is provided. The brace comprises upper and lower supports rotatably connected by a hinge. Each of the supports comprises an elongate portion having a channel along part of its length, and a sliding upright nesting within the channel. The upright is longitudinally translatable within the channel so that the support length is adjustable. Flanges are provided along edges of the channel to prevent lateral separation of the upright from the channel. A spring-biased button protrudes from a surface of the channel. The button cooperates with one of a plurality of holes in the upright, providing a positive lock to retain the upright in one of a number of predetermined positions. The upright is also completely removable from the channel. Removal of the upright shortens the brace. Straps cooperate with brackets on the supports and/or uprights to secure the brace to a patient's leg.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2005Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: DJO, LLCInventors: Del Ray Doty, Alexis Erwin Doty
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Patent number: 8517966Abstract: A screw nail correcting apparatus used for treating ingrown nails seen in human feet and/or hands adapts to different nail widths and to the changes that may occur in time on the same nail and practically enables pulling of the nail with an amount of force complying with the requirement. The fact that the apparatus is not a single piece and that it can be mounted separately from both sides of the nail provides ease of use, and the screw mobile part in the middle thereof helps to adjust the tautness according to the requirement of the nail at the concerned moment.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2009Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Inventor: Fatma Gulru Erdogan
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Patent number: 8512268Abstract: The invention relates to an orthopedic auxiliary aid such as a bandage, orthesis, splint, support, compressive clothing and/or knitted item or similar for the therapy or support of corresponding body parts, comprising a functional element have additional therapeutic effects. Said orthopedic auxiliary aid is a compressive knitted part that comprises at least one receiving device for the additional functional element and at least one opening that is embedded in the knitted item allowing access to the receiving device, said opening does not negatively modify the compression properties of the auxiliary aid.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2009Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Assignee: Medi GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Stefan Weihermueller
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Patent number: 8512267Abstract: A fitted hinge brace for supporting a joint that employs a flexible over-molding over hinge arms. The over-molded hinge brace dynamically conforms to the shape of the wearer in real-time, working with the wearer's body to provide comfortable support. The hinge brace includes first and second cuffs with flexible over-molding formed over medial and lateral hinges. The medial and lateral hinges each include a hinge arm and a hinge plate with geared portion. The geared portions of the medial hinge plate of the first cuff fit between the geared portions of the medial hinge plate of the second cuff, and the geared portions of the lateral hinge plate of the first cuff fit between the geared portions of the lateral hinge plate of the second cuff.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2011Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Assignee: Top Shelf Manufacturing, LLCInventors: Robert J. McCune, John M. Petlansky, Jeffrey D. Leonard
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Patent number: 8506508Abstract: A compression sleeve includes a wicking layer secured to bladder material defining an inflatable bladder along a seamline. Fibers of the wicking layer extend through the seamline to allow fluid wicked by the wicking layer from the wearer's skin to evaporate to the atmosphere.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2007Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Raymond Avitable, Jennie Brown
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Patent number: 8506510Abstract: An orthopedic device in the form of a circumferential walker includes a first member (posterior shell) and a second member (dorsal shell) corresponding to the first member. An outsole or plantar shell portion is attached to, or formed on or with the posterior shell. A hinge mechanism is provided between the posterior and dorsal shells to allow the dorsal shell to be swung away from the posterior shell in order to accommodate an anatomical limb therein. Inflatable bladders having perspiration wicking channels and/or openings are provided within a liner for insertion between the posterior and dorsal shells. Quick-connecting buckle and retaining assemblies can be provided to allow a user to quickly don and doff the orthopedic device.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2009Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Assignee: Ossur HFInventors: Irving Hu, Jane Lee
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Patent number: 8500668Abstract: A functional electrical stimulation brace responsive to various positions of an intended wearer's foot. The device includes a plurality of sensors positioned at different locations under the intended wearer's foot to detect the current position of the foot. Outputs from the sensors are fed to a controller that uses logic to activate an electrical stimulation unit that stimulates the peroneal muscles of a patient at the appropriate times during the patient's gait. The device may also employ mechanical stabilization of the ankle in addition to the functional electrical stimulation by means of an ankle foot orthosis with a variable resistance hinge. The electrodes are embedded in fixed locations in the brace upper portion so that optimal location of the electrodes relative to the peroneal muscles is maintained every time the device is applied. Also provided is a method for assistance and rehabilitation for a patient by electrical stimulation of the peroneal muscles.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2007Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: Drexel UniversityInventors: Sorin Siegler, Brett W. Hraban, Elizabeth La Montagne, Joshua Meles, Wei Sun
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Patent number: 8491513Abstract: Protective devices, to protect a body part having a bony portion with a soft tissue layer between the bony portion and an outer skin layer, have an inner surface which conforms to the body part to be protected and are applied to the body part to reduce pressure exhibited at the interface between the bony portion and the soft tissue layer, across the soft tissue and outer skin layers and at the interface between the outer skin layer and a support surface. The protective devices may be made of any material suitable for distributing the weight of the body part over an extended area and volume so as to decrease the pressure about the bony portion.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2011Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Inventors: Eric Flam, Oliver Bodine, Henry I. Schanzer
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Patent number: 8491511Abstract: The invention relates to an orthotic joint, in particular ankle joint for a leg orthosis, comprising a joint part with a splint mounting and a stirrup which is connected to the joint part to be pivotable about an axis A and has a dorsal and a plantar abutment surface wherein on both sides of the axis A, on the joint part is formed a channel, in which one function means, each, for forming a dorsal or plantar abutment for the stirrup or its abutment surfaces is arranged, which is characterized in that each function means comprises a cup spring arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2011Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: Fior & Gentz GmbHInventors: Ralf Gentz, Jorg Fior
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Publication number: 20130178775Abstract: A hip orthosis having a flexible waist band for conforming to the waist of a user can be attached at any position on the exterior of the waist band with adjustments in a vertical circumferential and rotational position for connecting a hip support unit at a desired position to maintain the head of a femur into the acetabulum of a user. The hip support unit is connected to a hinge member and an extension unit that is secured at a lower portion of the thigh wherein a thigh support unit can be adjusted so that a three point force system can be applied to the user.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2012Publication date: July 11, 2013Inventors: Gregory J. Paaske, Shannon R. Schwenn, Benjamin G. Domb
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Publication number: 20130172799Abstract: An adjustable heel stabilization device comprised of first and second side plates, a union plate, a first connector plate for attaching said first side plate with the union plate and a corresponding second connector plate for connecting said second side plate with the union plate, wherein said first and second side plates are repositionable relative to the union plate and vice versa. The adjustable heel stabilization device of the present invention allows an individual to apply pressure to both sides of the heel and compress the skin and tissue along the bottom of the heel together, thereby creating a cushioning effect when the individual is walking, standing or sitting. The adjustable heel stabilization device is adjustable to accommodate various shapes and sizes of footwear, and helps to reduce swelling in the foot and provide relief for heel pain, heel spurs, plantar fasciitis and arch pain.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 4, 2013Publication date: July 4, 2013Inventor: Raymond Ramirez
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Patent number: 8465445Abstract: An orthosis comprising a foot plate, at least one structural frame strut is disclosed. The orthosis frame strut is formed from layered fabric that is infused with a hardened structural resin.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2011Date of Patent: June 18, 2013Inventor: Patrick George
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Patent number: 8460224Abstract: A therapeutic compression device for applying compression force to a patient. The device is constructed of multiple layers, at least two of which are fluid-tight. At least two fluid-tight layers define a fluid-tight chamber that has a smaller surface area than the overall device. Fluid supplied to the fluid-tight chamber causes compressive force to be exerted on a patient. Preferably at least one layer is a fluid permeable material. An additional layer of fluid permeable material may be also be added to ensure a fluid permeable barrier exists between the fluid-tight chamber and a patient.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2010Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Inventors: Michael L. Wilford, John Crane
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Patent number: 8460226Abstract: An orthotic apparatus positioned on the top of the forefoot that aligns and locks the first metatarsal in a plantarflexed position. A compressible orthotic pad positioned on the forefoot directly over the first metatarsal. When pressure is applied to the orthotic pad, the first metatarsal is forced down, unlocking the first metatarsal phalangeal joint and eliminating functional hallux limitus.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2009Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Inventor: Michael James Rushton